Dell Axim x51v PDA Review

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With a 624MHz processor, 256MB of ROM, built in WiFi, and one seriously sharp VGA display, the new Axim packs quite a punch. This new Dell Pocket PC is a serious contender in the ďmost bang for the buckĒ category. But does it live up to the hype?

Introduction

I should start this all off by saying that Iíve been a PDA user for some time now. The first PDA I had was the IBM WorkPad c3, and black & white Palm. I then moved on to the 505. It's not that much better, but color nonetheless. My first introduction to PocketPC was the Toshiba e310, and let me tell you, I loved it.

Although the Windows PocketPC operating system was in its infancy at the time, I quickly recognized its superiority over Palm, and of course foresaw the rapidly approaching demise of the Palm OS. Windows PocketPC (now called Windows Mobile) is similar in look and feel to the Windows desktop operating system. You can decide on your own whether or not you like that, but the truth is that itís more intuitive, more extensible, and just plain sexier.

Some of the clear advantages that have persisted through all revisions of the product are:

Ability to use the sync cradle connection as a full-on network connection, and browse the network and web very fast when cradled

Far more fully features common tools, such as email, calendar, and contacts.

Media player, and installable DivX player

So I admit, my expectations were already pretty high based on previous Pocket PC experience. But when I saw the built in WiFi and VGA resolution, I began to salivate. I waited for Dellís í10 days of dealsí (a Canadian thing), and all too eagerly pulled out the magic credit card! Lo and behold, three business days later I had a wonderful new package delivered.